Item 01: Sir Charles Rosenthal diary, 25 September 1914-31 December 1918 - Page 79
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[Page 79]
with me in a car. Lieut Asher seriously ill with Pnuemonia and Measles. No hope held out for his recovery.
Officers patrols out at work
Sunday 14th March
At last a beautiful day. Spent the morning with Officers Patrols, criticising their work of yesterday. After lunch I walked to Mena Hospital to see Lt Asher. Met Colonel (Dr) Springthorpe of Melbourne. He is attending him. Very seriously ill. He however recognised me and spoke a few words but it was apparent he had great difficulty and was in evident pain.
Monday 15th March
Brigade drill during day. First chance we have had. Major Parker took ill this morning, also Lieut Vowles. Both in same tent.
Tuesday 16th March
Brigade climbing hills, manhandling guns up and down hills. In afternoon swimming horses. Major Parker and Lieut Vowles admitted to Hospital at 2PM. At 4 PM Major Parker sank into unconsciousness, and at 10PM we were sent for as he was seriously ill. Col Springthorpe of Melbourne is attending him, but so far he has not been able to diagnose the case. Received letter from Nell dated Feby 15th also Chris and Alvord.
Wednesday 17th March
Poor old Parker remained unconscious all day and died at 10PM. Doctors diagnosed the case as Cerebro Spinal Meningitis. A very sad ending. He had not opportunity to send a word of farewell to his wife or to his brothers who are here. Vowles improving. Asher is also improving. If he recovers it will be a wonderful case. He has been unconscious for some days.
Thursday 18th March
This morning the Brigade (less 8th Battery) crossed over Pontoon bridge, Major Browne and myself completed arrangements for Major Parker's funeral. The Adjutant selected firing party of 200 rank and file and during the morning instructed them.
Funeral moved off from Mena House Hospital at 2.30PM; the 8th Battery providing gun carriage and team. Major Brown, Burgess, Hughes,